Vietnam: Attractive Destination for French Tourists in Summer 2025

The 45-day visa exemption for French citizens and many other European nationals, together with increasingly convenient direct flight connections, has made Vietnam an appealing choice for French travelers.
October 12, 2025 | 14:43
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Vietnam has emerged as the most popular Asian destination among French tourists this summer, recording a 54.7% increase in arrivals compared with the same period last year.

International tourists visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Photo: Minh Anh/VGP)
International tourists visit Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Photo: Minh Anh/VGP)

A recent article in the French daily Le Fiagaro noted that amid global economic fluctuations, Vietnam has made a remarkable mark on the world tourism map, becoming “the success story of French tourism in 2025.”

Citing data from the French Tour Operators Association (SETO), the newspaper reported that while many traditional destinations for French travelers such as Greece, Turkey, Thailand, and the United States experienced declines due to natural disasters, political instability, or rising costs, Vietnam achieved the strongest growth in the region, far surpassing other Asian countries.

The article stated: “Vietnam is enjoying tourism success, with the number of French visitors rising by 54.7% in just one year.”

According to Le Figaro, this is the highest growth rate among destinations outside Europe, reflecting a clear trend among French tourists this year: a preference for safe countries that offer reasonable costs and distinctive cultural experiences.

French tourism experts attribute this achievement to Vietnam’s stable environment, flexible visa policy, and competitive service prices.

The 45-day visa exemption for French citizens and other European travelers, along with the increasingly convenient direct flight network between Paris and Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, has made Vietnam an attractive choice for French tourists eager to explore Asia.

Beyond affordability, Vietnam is also highly rated for its diverse tourism products that combine cultural heritage, nature, cuisine, and leisure. Its image as a friendly, peaceful, and culturally rich destination helps Vietnam stand out in the region, particularly as several Asian countries face natural disasters or political tensions.

According to Patrice Caradec, President of SETO, Vietnam is expected to maintain strong growth in the upcoming winter season, as demand for tours from France to Vietnam, Cambodia, and South Korea remains high. He emphasized: “Vietnam is likely to continue this positive momentum in the near future.”

Le Figaro also reported that among the top winter destinations favored by French tourists, Vietnam remains in the leading group along with Egypt and the Dominican Republic.

With its impressive growth rate, increasingly modern tourism infrastructure, and image as a safe and welcoming country, Vietnam is asserting its position as one of Asia’s “new bright spots” in tourism for 2025, while strengthening its standing on the global tourism map.

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